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How much do forensic psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic psychologist in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by forensic psychologists when working within the legal system?

Forensic psychologists often encounter challenges such as balancing confidentiality with legal obligations, managing high-stress situations involving sensitive cases, and presenting complex psychological findings in a way that is understandable to judges and juries. They must also navigate ethical dilemmas and maintain objectivity, especially when their assessments could significantly impact legal outcomes. Collaboration with attorneys, law enforcement, and other mental health professionals is frequent, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.

What Do Forensic Psychologists Do?

Forensic Psychologists analyze data and conduct research on criminal behavior. They determine what the characteristics of a criminal may be based on patterns, evidence, and the background of that individual. Law enforcement officials rely on Forensic Psychologists to create criminal profiles of a crime to help narrow the field of suspects. These specialists may also need to act as expert witnesses in a case, testifying whether or not they believe a defendant was likely to commit the crime on trial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Psychologist, you need a deep understanding of psychological assessment, criminal behavior, and legal standards, typically supported by a doctoral degree in psychology and relevant state licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools such as the MMPI-2, risk assessment instruments, and courtroom procedures is essential, as is board certification in forensic psychology. Strong analytical thinking, objectivity, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion set top professionals apart. These skills are crucial for providing accurate evaluations, expert testimony, and informed recommendations that impact legal decisions and public safety.

What jobs can forensic psychology get you?

Forensic psychologists can work in criminal justice settings, such as evaluating defendants' mental competency, providing expert testimony, and assisting with criminal investigations. They may also work in correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies, or private practice, applying psychological assessments and therapy skills to legal cases. Licensing and specialized training are often required for these roles.

What are forensic psychologists?

Forensic psychologists are professionals who apply psychological principles and techniques within the legal and criminal justice systems. They often assess individuals involved in legal cases, provide expert testimony in court, and help law enforcement agencies understand criminal behavior. Their work includes evaluating defendants' mental competency, assessing the risk of reoffending, and advising on jury selection or sentencing. Forensic psychologists may also work in research, policy development, and rehabilitation programs for offenders.

What would you do as a forensic psychologist?

A forensic psychologist evaluates individuals involved in legal cases, providing assessments of mental competency, risk, and psychological state. They often conduct interviews, administer tests, and prepare reports for courts, working closely with law enforcement, attorneys, and the judiciary. Certification and knowledge of legal procedures are important in this role.

How much does the FBI pay forensic psychologists?

FBI forensic psychologists are typically classified as federal government employees, earning salaries that range from approximately $60,000 to over $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often hold advanced degrees and security clearances, with opportunities for overtime and benefits common in federal positions.

Is there a high demand for forensic psychologists?

Forensic psychologists are in growing demand due to increased focus on mental health assessments in criminal justice and legal settings. Employment for forensic psychologists is projected to grow faster than average, with opportunities in correctional facilities, courts, and law enforcement agencies requiring specialized training and licensure.
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Forensic Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Psychologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Psychologist - Inpatient - Georgia Regional Hospital - Savannah

Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Department of - DBHDD

Savannah, GA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Georgia Regional Hospital - Savannah (GRHS) operates 179 licensed, accredited inpatient beds for two major program areas: 1) adult mental health, 2) adult forensic services.

 

GRH/Savannah offers inpatient adult mental health services, inpatient habilitation services and forensic program services to individuals throughout Georgia.

 

We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Forensic Psychologist.

 

Under supervision of a hospital forensic director, the successful candidates will be responsible for the completion of criminal forensic evaluations.

 

Knowledge of abnormal psychology, pertinent statutes and case law related to the practice of forensic psychology, malingering assessment tools, intellectual testing, personality assessment, best practices in mental health treatment, and ethical/professional guidelines for the practice of forensic psychology is required.

 

Job duties include the participation on the recovery planning (treatment) team; facilitation of group treatment; participation in the development of individualized recovery (treatment) plans; documentation of treatment progress; completion of face-to-face forensic mental health evaluations to determine competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, and violence risk; report preparation; expert testimony; behavioral programming; clinical supervision of mental health counselors, and related work as assigned.  Completion of the state's Competency to Stand Trial Certification process within one year of hire is required for continued employment.

 

Job Responsibilities & Performance Standards:

 
  • Conducts court-ordered pretrial forensic psychological evaluations to answer questions of competency to stand trial and/or criminal responsibility as a neutral friend of the court.
  • Completes assessments on individuals admitted to a State Forensic Psychiatric Unit.
  • Conducts forensic risk assessments and other psychological testing.
  • Conducts groups and psycho-educational interventions.
  • License may be temporary, provisional, or permanent.  "License eligible" if able to obtain within a reasonable time (i.e. relocation from another state)
Benefits
 
  • Vacation - 15 days each year up to 5 years of service; 18 days each year from 5 - 10 years of service; 21 days each year from 10+ years of service
  • Sick Leave - accrual at a rate of 10 hours per month (15 days each year) 
  • Holidays - Georgia recognizes 13 paid holidays
  • Retirement - both a 401(K) plan with a matching employer contribution and a Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • Available Insurance - Health; Dental; Vision; Legal; Disability; Life & dependent life
  • Spending Accounts - Healthcare & Childcare accounts available
We are a Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.
 
This opportunity will close when we have an adequate candidate field and/or filled the position.   
 
FOR THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT, STATE LAW REQUIRES A NATIONAL AND STATE BACKGROUND CHECK AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT.
 
B9876
Doctorate degree in clinical or counseling psychology from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited college or university AND current Georgia license to practice psychology AND One year of experience at the lower level Psychologist 1 (HCP140) or equivalent. Note: License may be temporary, provisional, or permanent.
Additional Information
  • Agency Logo:
  • Requisition ID: HEA0A22
  • Number of Openings: 3
  • Advertised Salary: $95,400 - $112,700
  • Shift: Day Job
  • Posting End Date: Aug 5, 2026

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